Decisions on fees and scholarships
UniSA’s Council has voted to increase HECS charges from 2005, and to introduce more than 2,000 scholarships for disadvantaged students.
The decision to increase fees by 25 per cent for all students commencing in 2005 (except students undertaking nursing and education programs) follows an extensive consultation process involving forums on each campus and at major university committees.
Council also voted to increase the number of scholarships for students from low socio economic backgrounds and from rural and remote areas, providing 2,000 scholarships of $2,000 a year for the duration of a program (up to four years). They also agreed to offer scholarships to students commencing programs to prepare them to be science and maths teachers.
UniSA Vice Chancellor Professor Denise Bradley said a great deal of thought had gone into the decision. “We have thought long and hard about our options and take the decision to raise HECS charges with reluctance, but without increases in the HECS rate at UniSA, our projections show that by the year 2009, our funding shortfall is $47.6 million,“ she said.
“However we welcome the opportunity to provide more scholarships. Many students face financial pressures and even financial hardship while studying and poorer students need financial assistance. Our UniSA Scholarship Fund will provide much needed help to many more students in 2005.“
For more information, visit www.unisa.edu.au/news/2004/150604.asp